What to do if you're Stopped by an Officer

Our officers speak with people throughout the course of their duties daily. They are trained to do so in a safe, efficient and effective manner.

There are a variety of reasons an officer may want to speak with you:

During a traffic stop

In response to a 911 call in your neighborhood

A crime may have just occurred in the area

You could be a witness

You might fit the description of a suspect or a witness

Another person pointed you out as a witness or a suspect

The officer observed you acting suspicious or thinks you need assistance

What to do

If you are stopped by one of our officers, be polite and keep the following things in mind:

If you are not sure why you are being stopped, ask politely at the appropriate time. Please keep in mind that some investigations are time-sensitive and the officer may not have time to explain things to you.

Provide respectful, forthright responses.

Avoid sudden, unexplained movements.

Keep your hands visible at all times and do not put them in your pockets.

If you are in a vehicle, pull over as quickly and as safely as possible.

At night, turn your vehicle’s interior light on.

Do not get out of your vehicle unless you are asked to do so.

Place your hands on the steering wheel.

Do not argue about your citations or the decision the officer makes. Your guilt or innocence can only be determined in court and you can make your complaint at a later time to a supervisor.

If you are arrested, do not resist if you believe you are being unfairly arrested. Your guilt or innocence can only be determined in court.

Complaints

If you would like to make a complaint about your arrest, the officer or how you were treated, you can:

Call 913.477.7301 to speak with the on-duty supervisor or a Watch Commander.

To file a formal written complaint, you must pick up a form from the Lenexa Police Station or bring in a written statement.